What to Do With Old Appliances 

How to Dispose of Old Appliances

When your old appliances start breaking down, it helps to know your options for getting rid of them. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to dispose of old appliances in your area. You’ll just need to decide whether your best option for appliance disposal is donating it, recycling it or just throwing it away. 

Assess the Condition of Your Old Appliances

The condition of your appliance will help you determine when and how to dispose of it. Here are some telltale signs that it may be time to get rid of your appliance:

• 10 Years or Older: Most appliances are built to last between 10 and 20 years, though your mileage may vary depending on manufacturing defects and the quality of your unit.
• Loud Noises: If your fridge or microwave is making an unusually loud noise, it’s probably time to replace. 
• Constant Repairs: If you find yourself fixing something on your appliance more than once a year, it’s time to get a new one.  

Once you’ve decided your home needs a new appliance, you need to decide the best way to get rid of your old appliance. Keep reading to explore your options. 

Options for Donating Your Appliances

If your appliance doesn’t have any major problems, you can simply donate it. The organizations below generally accept large appliances as donations:

Donation centers that usually offer appliance pickup:

• Salvation Army (Also allows for drop-off) 
• Habitat for Humanity Restores  
• St. Vincent de Paul  
• Vietnam Veterans of America (Small appliances only)

Donation centers that require drop-off:

• Local Charities and Shelters
• Goodwill (Small appliances only) 

Options for Recycling Appliances

If your appliance is in poor condition, or is broken beyond repair, then the best option for appliance disposal is to recycle it. Your options for recycling will differ based on what you are recycling and the options available near you. In general, you should be able to recycle things like refrigerators, freezers and ovens using the local resources below.

• Transfer Station: If your city offers recycling, they will typically offer recycling stations for large appliances at a local transfer station or dump. 
• Local Scrap Metal Recyclers: Metal recyclers will accept old appliances for sale as scrap. 
• Retailers: When you purchase a new appliance, some retailers will offer to haul away your used appliance (sometimes for a fee). Ask about this option when purchasing your new appliance.
• Utility Provider: Your utility provider may offer an appliance recycling program. Some organizations offer this in conjunction with the EPA’s Responsible Appliance Disposal program and may provide free pickup and pay an incentive. 

If you have trouble finding local resources for recycling large appliances, use Earth911’s recycling database to locate recycling facilities near you. 

Options for Disposing of Your Old Appliances

If recycling isn’t an option for you, then your last option for appliance disposal is to simply throw away your old items. There are many options for appliance disposal in your area. Decide which of these options is right for you:

Dumpster Rental 

Most dumpster rental companies will accept large, non-refrigerant appliances for disposal. Additional fees may be imposed by local landfills ranging from $35 to $75. Ask your rental provider about what appliances you can throw in the dumpster beforehand. This is a great option if you’re planning to get rid of more than just one appliance.

Municipal Pickup

Your city may offer collection and recycling services for large appliance disposal. Contact municipal waste collection agency or the department of public works for information. Additional fees may apply.

Local Dump

Local landfills and transfer stations will accept large appliances. Fees and regulations may apply. 

Junk Removal Service

Local junk collectors will accept large appliances for either recycling or disposal, though fees can range from $50 to $100 depending on your location.

Appliance Disposal FAQs

How do I know if my appliance can be disposed of in a dumpster in my area?

We accept large appliances for disposal in many of our service areas, but disposal regulations vary by location. Some cities may prohibit the disposal of ovens, refrigerators, dishwashers and other appliances in landfills. Air conditioners and refrigerators with Freon may not be accepted in some areas. Our customer service team can answer this question about your location. Call us now to find out.

Why is there a fee?

Local landfills and transfer stations may impose additional fees for handling and processing large appliances. This fee applies whether the appliance is delivered directly to the landfill, left on the curb or arrives in a dumpster.

Have any other potentially difficult items to throw away? Check out our other disposal how-tos to learn more about disposing of electronics, mattresses and furniture.